If you are a person who is at risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition that is characterized by poor blood flow to the lower limbs, then you may need to undergo an Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) test. The ABI is a screening measure that many podiatrists use to identify PAD in their patients. To do this test, the doctor measures your blood pressure at your arms and at your ankles and then compares the two numbers to calculate a ratio. If the resulting ratio is between 1.0 and 1.4, you likely do not have PAD. If the number is between 0.91 and 0.99, then you may have borderline PAD. If the ratio is below 0.90, then you likely do have PAD. To learn more about the ABI test and other tools used to assess circulation in your lower limbs, please see a podiatrist. 

Vascular testing plays an important part in diagnosing disease like peripheral artery disease. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, or diabetes, consult with Abeer M. Foteh, DPM from Greater Houston Foot Centers. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Vascular Testing?

Vascular testing checks for how well blood circulation is in the veins and arteries. This is most often done to determine and treat a patient for peripheral artery disease (PAD), stroke, and aneurysms. Podiatrists utilize vascular testing when a patient has symptoms of PAD or if they believe they might. If a patient has diabetes, a podiatrist may determine a vascular test to be prudent to check for poor blood circulation.

How Is it Conducted?

Most forms of vascular testing are non-invasive. Podiatrists will first conduct a visual inspection for any wounds, discoloration, and any abnormal signs prior to a vascular test.

 The most common tests include:

• Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) examination
• Doppler examination
• Pedal pulses

These tests are safe, painless, and easy to do. Once finished, the podiatrist can then provide a diagnosis and the best course for treatment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Baytown, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.